Tack Talk roundup — 2026-07-18

Our daily scan of what the equestrian web is publishing about tack, fit, and horse care — short takeaways here, full credit and full reads at the original publishers.

Best dressage pads for everyday training and competition (Horse & Hound)

This guide explores how high-quality dressage pads have evolved to incorporate performance features like moisture-wicking and shock absorption. It advises riders to select high-wither designs with breathable materials to enhance saddle stability and maintain the horse's comfort. This helps dressage riders and trainers looking to optimize their horse's comfort and performance under saddle.

Read the full article at Horse & Hound →

The 7-Step Summertime Routine (SmartPak Blog)

This article outlines a practical seven-step protocol for cooling down horses and keeping them comfortable during extreme summer heat. It emphasizes the importance of thorough hosing to reduce core temperature, followed by sweat scraping so water does not trap heat against the horse's skin. This guide helps horse owners seeking actionable ways to protect their equines from heat stress and dehydration in hot weather.

Read the full article at SmartPak Blog →

'A relaxed expression, a quiet mouth, a swinging tail and a willing attitude say far more than the bridle a horse wears,' says Anna Ross (Horse & Hound)

This opinion piece argues that horse welfare is determined by the rider's hands and the individual horse's comfort rather than whether they are ridden in a bitted or bitless bridle. It advises equestrians to prioritize finding the equipment that allows each individual horse to perform with the greatest confidence and relaxation. This helps riders and trainers reflecting on their tack choices and seeking to optimize bitting or bridle configurations for their horse's individual well-being.

Read the full article at Horse & Hound →